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Back in session
WCMS football working in spring
WCMS football
Quarterback Gavin Blocker alludes WCMS defenders in practice Tuesday. The Pioneers have had over 50 players attend the spring session.

Ben Matheney is starting from scratch. It’s what needed as the Warren County Middle School football program embarks on a new era.

Matheney is currently in the midst of his first spring practice, where he’s taking the Pioneers back to the basics. With many of the over 50 players who have attended spring workouts being first-time players, Matheney knew it would be necessary.

“Our top priority for spring is teaching the fundamentals,” said Matheney. “For us, nothing is more important. Regardless of what else is going on, we block and we tackle every single day.”

Matheney has put together a coaching staff of former Pioneers, hoping their pride in local athletics will be a big benefit. 

Andy Evans is serving as defensive coordinator, along with coaching running backs and linebackers. Cory Prince is also working with running backs and linebackers, while Connor Dixon is focused on the quarterbacks and secondary. Jacob Lee coaches wide receivers and secondary, while David Craven is with the offensive and defensive lines.

“The best thing about my staff is it is full of former Pioneers who want to help build the program that has meant so much to them,” said Matheney.

Support has been easy to come by. Matheney is working hand-in-hand with the WCHS team and new coach Matt Turner, implementing many of the same schemes in hopes of making transitions easier. He’s also seen plenty of community support and players coming out in near-record numbers.

He wants more to join this offseason and Friday night will be important for more participation.

Matheney will hold a parent and player meeting at 6 p.m. in the WCMS cafeteria. The meeting is primarily to welcome upcoming sixth-graders to the program. The new coach will have information for any player who wants to play next fall, along with a summer schedule.

Warren County will conclude spring practice Tuesday, May 21 with a scrimmage against Franklin North.